Zesty Cucumber and Tomato Salad

Name: Zesty Cucumber and Tomato Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cucumber, diced; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and black pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Speedy Plates

I absolutely love making this Zesty Cucumber and Tomato Salad whenever I want something refreshing. The combination of crisp cucumbers and vibrant tomatoes with a tangy dressing is simply irresistible. It's the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or just a light lunch. I enjoy varying the herbs based on what I have on hand, which adds an exciting twist every time. Trust me, once you try this salad, you'll want to whip it up again and again, especially on warm days!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:54:26.978Z

I remember the first time I made this Zesty Cucumber and Tomato Salad, it was a hot summer day, and I craved something light and refreshing. While experimenting in the kitchen, I realized how simple it was to highlight fresh ingredients with a zesty dressing. The explosion of flavors became a delightful surprise, and I decided to serve it at our family BBQ that weekend.

Everyone raved about the salad, and I was thrilled to see how quickly it disappeared. The key is to use the freshest produce you can find; it truly makes all the difference. Adding a sprinkle of feta on top elevates the dish, bringing creaminess that balances the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crisp textures that refresh your palate
Vibrant colors that brighten any meal
Quick to prepare, perfect for last-minute gatherings

Choosing the Right Ingredients

For this Zesty Cucumber and Tomato Salad, the freshness of your ingredients is key. Select cucumbers that are firm and have a vibrant green color, as they add a delightful crunch. English cucumbers work well too as they have fewer seeds. When it comes to tomatoes, ripe cherry tomatoes that are red and slightly soft are ideal for maximum flavor. If you're looking for a twist, try using heirloom varieties for added color and taste.

Red onion provides a beautiful color contrast, but if you prefer a milder flavor, consider using green onions instead. Fresh parsley is a fantastic herb choice, but dill or basil can also work wonderfully, allowing you to customize the salad based on available ingredients. Remember that the quality of your herbs contributes significantly to the overall taste.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing is where the salad truly shines, balancing the fresh flavors of the vegetables. When whisking the dressing, make sure to combine the olive oil and lemon juice vigorously until you achieve an emulsion. This ensures it coats the salad evenly. For a thicker consistency, you can add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, which not only enhances the flavor but also helps the dressing adhere to the salad better.

Taste your dressing before adding to the salad; adjusting the salt and lemon juice can make a significant difference. If you prefer a little heat, feel free to incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the dressing for a zesty kick. Preparing the dressing in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so consider making it an hour before serving.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 cups cucumber, diced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste

Mix these ingredients to create a delicious and refreshing salad!

Steps

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and parsley.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes before serving.

Enjoy this salad as a refreshing side dish or a light main course!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, add crumbled feta cheese or a handful of olives!

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad is great for preparing ahead of time, especially useful if you're hosting a gathering. You can chop your cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions a few hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it's best to keep the dressing separate until just before serving. This prevents the vegetables from becoming soggy and losing their crunch.

If you want to enhance flavors, consider marinating the salad in the dressing for about 15 minutes before serving. This will deepen the taste without compromising the salad's freshness. It’s a simple step that elevates the dish and makes it even more delightful.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it a staple at barbecues or picnics. It also complements light sandwiches and wraps, providing a refreshing counterbalance to richer dishes. For a heartier meal, you can serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish to create a balanced plate with plenty of textures.

If you have leftovers, consider tossing them with cooked quinoa or bulgur for a tasty grain bowl the next day. Just make sure to stir in some additional dressing or a splash of olive oil to keep it vibrant. The flavor might intensify, making it a delicious, zesty option for lunch!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, avocado, or even corn for extra texture and flavor!

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.